Honda has previously experimented with 3D printing, releasing miniature cars that fans of the brand can download and print at home, with models including 1994’s FSR Concept and 2003’s Kiwami.

Estimates from tech firm Gartner suggest that sales of 3D printers are booming all over the globe, rising from $400 million to around $4 billion in just five years.

Local Motors’ LM3D Swim was financed through a crowd-funding campaign that saw famous petrol-heads including American talk-show host Jay Leno make contributions.

The technique of 3D printing is thought to hold huge potential for motor manufacturers, helping them to speed up production and reduce costs.

This could provide a significant boost to the UK’s already booming automotive sector, which made more than 109,000 cars in August alone, according to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.